pressure cookers

[trixiepup]

Do any of you guys use pressure cookers? How do the foods taste...are they basically steamed?
Any recommendations on brands/types to buy?

thanks,
andrea

[trixiepup]

you mean no one out there has ever used a pressure cooker? this is not encouraging...

[mals1]

I use my pressure cooker. I have a Presto which I just got late last summer. I cook stew meat in it, beans and such. I love it. My Mom used one when I was growing up. :)

[trixiepup]

thanks for responding. can i ask you a few more questions...?
when you cook meat in the pressure cooker, does it taste like it was cooked in a convential oven or stovetop way, or does it taste more like boiled meat? do things get browned in the pressure cooker?
thanks,
andrea

[mals1]

Stew meat I brown first before cooking. I always cook stew meat on top of the stove since its a tougher cut. However I know what you mean. If you cook it too long it can become too mushy and have a boiled effect. :)

I also have cooked corn beef in it and it turned out wonderful. I have to be honest and tell you I am still learning. I do have a book by Lorna Sass that has lots of great recipes. I made pinto beans a couple of weeks ago and they were great.